Cholesterol is a fatty substance found in your blood that’s essential for building healthy cells. However, too much cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease. There are two main types:

LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein): /b>Often referred to as “bad cholesterol,” high levels of LDL can build up in the walls of your arteries, leading to plaque formation and increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein): Known as “good cholesterol,” HDL helps remove LDL from your arteries, reducing the risk of heart disease.